https://www.consolidatedlabtesting.com/blogs/blog.atomConsolidated Lab Testing - Blog2019-05-08T11:05:00-04:00Consolidated Lab Testinghttps://www.consolidatedlabtesting.com/blogs/blog/is-a-paternity-test-while-pregnant-safe-the-pros-and-cons-of-dna-testing2019-05-08T11:05:00-04:002019-05-08T11:07:44-04:00Is a Paternity Test While Pregnant Safe? The Pros and Cons of DNA TestingChris Powell
It's important to understand any risks with tests during pregnancy. Determine the safety of a paternity test while pregnant.

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Are you pregnant but don’t know who the father is? Are you filled with dread at the thought of navigating the next 9 months alone – dodging the endless questions regarding the baby’s paternity? Do you want to find out the answer now instead of waiting until birth?

You’re in luck. Thanks to advances in science and technology, you no longer have to wait until birth to find out the paternity of your baby. Nowadays, there are multiple prenatal paternity test options available.

There are many benefits to taking advantage of these prenatal tests and establishing paternity during pregnancy. This can help both you and your baby through your pregnancy and after delivery.

If you’re interested in getting a paternity test while pregnant, check out the pros and cons of different DNA testing below!

Types of Paternity Test While Pregnant

There are three main options for paternity testing while pregnant. Each of these options involves different methods of obtaining DNA and analyzing it. Check out more information on each test as well as its pros and cons.

Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis is a prenatal procedure that is typically done for genetic testing. While it can establish paternity, it is more commonly performed to determine if a baby has any birth defects.

In order to complete this, the doctorinserts a needleinto the uterus through the pregnant woman’s stomach. Using that needle, the doctor collects amniotic fluid from the uterus. This sample is then sent to a lab for testing.

This invasive procedure can only be performed between 15 and 18 weeks of pregnancy. It must be performed by a doctor.

Pros

Amniocentesis is very accurate – with an over 99% accuracy rate. One of the benefits of amniocentesis is that you can also find out if your baby has any birth defects such as spina bifida.

Cons

Amniocentesis is risky. Because the doctor is penetrating the uterus with a needle, there is a small chance of miscarriage –about 0.2 to 0.3%.

Amniocentesis also has other risks such as risk of infection, amniotic fluid leak, and even injury to the baby via needle. While these are rare, it is something you must consider before having an amniocentesis.

Most doctors will also not perform an amniocentesis for paternity reasons due to these risks.

Chorionic Villa Sampling (CVS)

Chorionic Villa Sampling – or CVS – is another procedure that is used to typically test the baby for potential genetic issues.

This procedure can be done one of two ways. The doctor can either insert a thin tube into the vagina and cervix to grab a sample of chorionic villus tissue from the placenta.

Like an amniocentesis, the doctor can also insert a needle through the woman’s stomach into the uterus. Unlike an amniocentesis, the doctor then uses the needle to remove some chorionic villus tissue from the placenta instead of amniotic fluid. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

This procedure is done betweenweeks 10 and 12of pregnancy and must be performed by a doctor.

Pros

Like the amniocentesis, this test can detect many genetic issues such as Down Syndrome. It can also be done earlier in pregnancy than the amniocentesis. This makes it a great option for someone that is looking for answers earlier in their pregnancy. CVS is also over 99% accurate.

Cons

This is an invasive procedure that has many risks. There is a risk of miscarriage with CVS. There are also risks of bleeding, infection, and premature labor.

Only doctors can perform a CVS and typically will not do one for the sole purpose of paternity testing.

Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Test

The Non-invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP) test is a recent development in paternity testing. No longer do you have to have either a risky amniocentesis or a CVS performed during pregnancy to find out your baby’s paternity. Now, all you need to do is a simple blood test.

NIPP tests are very simple. The pregnant mother will need to go to a laboratory for bloodwork. They’ll likely take 1 to 2 vials of blood from the mother. The alleged father will also need to provide either a blood sample or cheek swab at the same time.

After both samples are taken, they're sent to a lab for analysis. The lab will then analyze the pregnant woman’s blood and the alleged father’s DNA sample.

The lab can isolate the fetal DNA from the mother’s blood and then use this to compare it to the father’s DNA. This will establish whether or not the alleged father is truly the biological father.

This test can be performed as soon as 8-9 weeks in pregnancy. To learn more about what is involved in NIPP testing,check out this blog here.

Pros

The NIPP test has many great pros. It can be performed earlier than both amniocentesis and CVS. You don’t need any doctor involvement for this test. You simply order a test online and get the bloodwork done at a local laboratory.

This is also non-invasive. You won't have any needles or tubes inserted into your uterus. There aren’t any risks of miscarriage or other issues that come with amniocentesis and CVS.

It is completely safe for both mother and baby. It is also extremely accurate with an over 99% accuracy rate.

Cons

The great thing about NIPP is that aren’t any risks with this procedure. It will not cause a miscarriage, vaginal bleeding, or infection. All you need to do is complete bloodwork which is a standard procedure in all pregnancies.

Since there are no cons with the NIPP, this is the perfect solution for anyone looking for prenatal paternity tests. Thisprenatal paternity DNA testis a great choice for anyone searching for one.

You’ll have results within 2 weeks with a 100% accuracy rate! You can also learn the sex of your baby.

Safe Prenatal Paternity Test

If you’re looking for a safe prenatal DNA test, the non-invasive prenatal paternity test is the best option for you. There are no risks and so many benefits in establishing paternity early in pregnancy.

Knowing the paternity helps foster a bond between father and baby prior to birth. The father is also more likely to emotionally and financially support you if they know that they are the father. On top of that, you can agree to child support and other arrangements ahead of delivery.

If you have any questions or concerns about taking a paternity test while pregnant, pleasereach out to us. We know that pregnancy can be a scary time, and we are here to make it an easier and less stressful experience for you.

Paternity tests have become associated with reality TV and family turmoil. The truth is far less dramatic.

Paternity tests provide important answers and documentation for families from all backgrounds, geographic areas, and economic levels. They have both emotional and practical benefits whether the child you're testing is a teenager or hasn't been born. That's why300,000 are performedin the US every year.

Considering whether to get a paternal DNA test? Here's what you stand to gain.

Benefits of Getting a Paternal DNA Test

Whether you're the mother or potential father of a child, here are seven powerful reasons to get a DNA test.

1. Establish Responsibility

It takes two people to create a child, so two people need to be equally responsible for that child's well-being. Of course, raising a child is no small feat.

No one wants to raise a child alone or take responsibility for someone else's child. A paternity test will set the record straight and indicate definitively who needs to take responsibility for the child.

This benefits your family in your private life and in potential family court too. If you need a child support ruling now or in the future, the court may require a paternity test. Even if you don't, the test results will let both parents know that they're taking appropriate responsibility.

2. Settle Questions Once and for All

When there is a question about a child's paternity, it can put a severe strain on the family dynamic. This is especially true if the mother and father are in a relationship.

Paternity questionsand the related trust issues that come with them tend to show up in one argument after another. Every time you look at your child, you're analyzing their features and behaviors to see if they resemble you or your partner.

A DNA test can set the record straight once and for all and answer the question that hangs over your family like a rain cloud.

3. Have a Complete Birth Certificate

When you have a child, you have a choice about whether or not to list the father on the birth certificate. Many families don't list the father if they aren't certain about paternity because it's difficult to remove that name later.

Ideally, though, most parents would prefer to have both parents' names on their child's birth certificate. It ensures that all their records are consistent and clear throughout their life.

Aprenatal DNA testcan confirm a father's paternity so you can be confident about the birth certificate. If your child has already been born, remember that you can also take a paternity test and add a father's name to a birth certificate later.

4. Have Documentation for Custody Lawsuits

A custody battle is never a fun experience. While the majority of custody arrangements are settled between the parents, it goes to another level if you need to get the court involved.

Sometimes courts will require paternity documentation because they award any amount of custody to a father. After all, they wouldn't want to give custody to someone who isn't the child's true father.

A DNA test will give you the documentation you need to proceed with your court case.

5. Citizenship Documentation

A child's parenthood doesn't just determine their medical makeup and who has responsibility for them. It also impacts the country or countries where they're citizens.

In the United States, a child is a citizen if they areborn to a US citizenor if they were born in the US. However, every country's citizenship requirements are different.

A paternity test may provide documentation you need to verify your child's citizenship. This is especially true if you don't list a father on your child's birth certificate.

6. A Sense of Identity for Your Child

Most of the purposes above are practical reasons you may want a paternity test for your child. As valid as this all is, we can't underestimate the emotional impact of those test results.

When a child is young, their view of the world is limited. Their parents are their primary resources for understanding themselves and the world around them.

No matter how old or young a child is, knowing their parentage gives them a more solid sense of identity. They can recognize where they get certain attributes and feel more confident in their relationships with their parents.

Getting Answers Once and for All

If you aren't sure what impact a person's paternity has on their life, ask someone who doesn't know who their father is. It makes a variety of legal matters more complicated. More importantly, it can impact a child's worldview for their entire life.

As huge as the consequences are, a paternal DNA test is a remarkably simple solution. The test is quick, painless, and inexpensive enough to be accessible to anyone.

If you want to reap all the benefits above and create a more stable future for your family, you can take that step today. Shop ourpaternal DNA testsonline.

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https://www.consolidatedlabtesting.com/blogs/blog/what-kind-of-sample-do-you-need-the-efficacy-of-paternity-test-with-hair-vs-cheek-swab2019-03-26T11:07:00-04:002019-03-26T11:07:18-04:00What Kind of Sample Do You Need: The Efficacy of Paternity Test with Hair vs Cheek SwabChris Powell
There are several ways to determine paternity. How effective is a paternity test with hair? Read this guide to see the differences between hair and cheek swab.

Each year almost 300,000 paternity tests take place in the United States. The tests determine if a man is or isn’t a child’s biological father.

The reasons for paternity tests are as unique as the people who need them. People want answers for medical history, custody, child support, and inheritance issues. Not to mention peace of mind.

If the potential father is available, paternity testing is easy. Most samples come from a cheek swab or blood draw. The test takes place at home, in a doctor’s office or in a professional testing center.

But what if dad isn’t around for a direct test? In some cases, the person is dead, lost or unavailable. Does that make the test impossible?

Keep reading to learn how to get a paternity test with hair when someone isn’t available for other methods.

DNA Samples for a Paternity Test

You may think one source of DNA is better than another for a paternity test. The truth is, DNA in a person’s saliva, blood, hair, and skin are all the same.

A good hair sample is equal to a cheek swab or blood sample for DNA testing. There’s no benefit to a blood test over a forensic sample for paternity tests. The key with hair is the root or hair follicle of the hair is needed. Cut hair will not work!

Some testing centers prefer buccal swabs (cheek swabs). It's easy to collect and gives consistent results. When cheek swabs are not possible, hair samples work for a paternity test.

Buccal swabs use cells from the inside of the cheek and some saliva to extract DNA. Swabbing the cheek is simple.

Buccal paternity test results are 100% accurate when done according to directions. The most important thing is to let the swab dry in the open air to prevent mold.

When it isn’t possible to provide a buccal swab sample, you can extract DNA from elsewhere on the body. That’s why all those law enforcement agents on TV dramas search for hair on bed pillows.

If saliva isn’t available hair samples work for a paternity test. It’s also possible to perform a DNA test on non-standard samples. These samples include cigarette butts, fingernails, ear wax, and hair among others.

A Paternity Test with Hair

If a mouth swab or blood test isn’t possible, use a hair sample for the paternity test. The hair follicle must include the root.

The root of the hair holds enough DNA to identify a person. The stem of the hair doesn’t have enough DNA material to do the job. Examine hairs for roots before sending them to a lab for analysis.

Hair is sturdy and holds up over time. People lose at least 50 hairs every day. That’s the same amount that makes a good sample for a DNA test.

A close look at hair reveals a shaft and a root. The root is the small bump at the end of the hair where it enters the skin. The root holds the same DNA as a cheek or blood cell.

Hair from a brush works if there's a root attached. Hair found on clothes, bedding or a hairbrush often has a visible root. Hair removed in the recent past is best.

Cut or shaven hair isn’t helpful because it doesn’t include the root.

Getting a DNA profile or extraction from a good hair sample with roots has a 75-80% success rate.

Does DNA Testing Work on Older Hair?

What if the hair you want to test is several years old? The hair rod won’t degrade over time, but the follicles may.

Hair is solid protein. The follicles are weaker and are often degraded by mold. If the hair sample stays in high humidity it’s DNA can last for many years.

Labs can test hair that is very old. But, the success rate for DNA extraction may fall. If the DNA extraction test is successful, you can use the hair to test for a DNA comparison.

How Much Hair Do You Need for a Paternity Test?

The ideal sample has 5 to 10 hair bulbs. This provides enough material to extract DNA. Don’t contaminate the hair roots with your own DNA by touching them with your fingers.

Submit the hair in a paper envelope. A plastic bag is okay if you are positive the bag and hairs are dry.

Expect a charge for DNA extraction on top of the paternity testing fee.

Family Relationship Testing

In some cases, the only option to establish paternity is to test other family members.

It’s possible to establish a paternal relationship by testing relatives. Potential testing candidates include parents, other children, and siblings.

This type of testing isn’t as accurate as traditional father-child testing, but it works. If there are many relatives to test it increases the degree of accuracy. For example, testing both parents and several siblings produces the best results.

How to Proceed with a Paternity Test

You have options when you decide to have a paternity test.

You can ask a primary care doctor, specialist, or nurse practitioner to order it. Or, you can take the test at home in private.

Other options include a non-invasive prenatal DNA paternity test. The test requires a small blood draw from the mothers arm and buccal swab for the alleged father. There is absolutely no risk to the baby. A successful test is possible as early as 9 weeks into the pregnancy, providing an early and reliable result.

A paternity test after the baby is born reveals if someone is or isn’t the biological father. The collection kit includes buccal swabs for the mother, child, and alleged father. The results are 100% certain.

Next Steps for Your Paternity Test

If you use a paternity test with hair or another method, make sure everyone understands it.

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https://www.consolidatedlabtesting.com/blogs/blog/not-the-father2019-03-01T09:44:00-05:002019-03-25T09:45:00-04:00Not the Father?Chris PowellNot the Father? How to Properly Dispute Paternity If you think you may not be the father, but someone has accused you of paternity, you don't have to wait to find out. Learn how to dispute properly here.

Not the Father? How to Properly Dispute Paternity

If you think you may not be the father, but someone has accused you of paternity, you don't have to wait to find out. Learn how to dispute properly here.

Keyword(s): not the father

Has someone wrongfully named you as the biological father of their child? Or has somebody denied you parental rights claiming you are not the father? You are not alone.

Around300,000 paternity teststake place in America annually to confirm whether a male is the biological father of a child.

Parenting is a lifetime commitment that comes with many responsibilities including satisfying the child’s basic needs and financial support. Whether married or not, the law requires parents to take responsibility for their children.

For this reason, it is crucial to establish the father’s paternity at the time of a baby’s birth. It minimizes the chances of disputes over the rights of the father and the child later in life.

Disputes Over Parental Obligation

Law on parenting can be complicated, and it doesn't only address paternity. Either parent has the right to dispute the parentage for various reasons.

A man who would like to confirm that he's a child's biological father canrequest a paternity test. However, some legal conditions override the DNA test results.

It may be too late to ask for a paternity test when there is a court order stating the man the legal parent. The law can declare a person the father even when he is not the biological father according to genetic testing.

A father remains responsible forchild supporteven if he had not planned for the birth of the child. The same applies whether the parents are living together or not.

In same-sex relationships, a partner can question parental obligation if he or she didn't intend to be the child's parent. There are still some intricacies that govern parental disputes in such cases.

Naming the Baby: Best Way to Prove Paternity

Most states in the United States do not regulate the naming of children. You can give your baby the first, middle, and last names of your choice. There is no requirement to include any of the father's names.

The naming process is quite straight-forward. The local health department or hospital social worker urges the mother to give the baby a name soon after delivery. They also ask some questions about the father, including his occupation.

The information is filled out in a form, and the mother receives the birth certificate. The document does not state the marital status of the child's parents. If the mother declines to name the baby or does not give up the father's details, it's possible to update the birth certificate later.

The most convenient way to establish the father's paternity is to include his name on the baby's birth certificate. Male parents have the right to establish paternity by signing an acknowledgment of paternity voluntarily. They can do this at the hospital or later.

Some states require unwed male parents to sign the voluntary declaration of paternity to have their name on the baby's birth certificate. If the father is not available, the mother cannot include his name. Both the parents should sign the voluntary declaration of paternity later on to accommodate the father.

When signing this document, beware that it has the same powers as a court order. Once submitted, it establishes the father's parental rights and obligations.

Paternity Disputes

Paternity refers to the state of being a father. Most legal disputes over paternity revolve around the father’s responsibility to pay child support.

Failure to sign the voluntary paternity statement does not guarantee a father immunity from supporting the child. The state can go to court seeking to confirm that he is the child's father and demand child support henceforth.

Paternity disputes also arise when someone denies a father parental rights. If the man signed a paternity statement or an acknowledgment of paternity, his rights stand protected.

For maximum parental rights, the father must have maintained an ongoing relationship with the child. He may not acquire full rights if he stays underground until a custody dispute arises. The court may grant substantial parental rights if it's the mother who prevented the father from forming a paternal relationship.

Don’t Acknowledge Paternity When Uncertain

Babies bring joy to couples, but raising them requires sacrifice and dedication. Acknowledging paternity is the noble thing to do as a father. However, don't commit yourself if you are not the father or you aren't sure.

By signing the paternity statement, child support becomes your obligation for the rest of your life. You may also have to repay the state for any welfare payments that the mother receives. The only way to get off the hook is to prove that you are not the father.

There are for main instances when men find themselves in the middle of paternity disputes:

Before the establishment of paternity

When both parents have signed the voluntary declaration of paternity

After a court order has established parentage

Presumed parentage due to the marriage of the parents

Let's look at the best course of action when accused to be someone's father under the conditions mentioned above.

Before the Establishment of Paternity

When the local child support agency (LCSA) serves you with complaints regarding parental obligation, you have 30 days to respond. You can challenge being the father to the child in question and ask for a paternity test. After this period, the court may declare you the legal parent with no regard to any additional evidence.

Make at least two copies of each. The original goes to the court, a copy for the LCSA, and one for you.

Serve the LCSA with their copies either in person or by mail. A third-party (server) should do this on your behalf.

Your server has a section to fill out on the second page of form FL-610. He or she should state how they delivered the documents. They should then print and sign their name and hand you the original Answer.

Submit the original Answer, your copy, and any additional papers to the court clerk. The clerk will stamp your copy and give it back to you and keep the original. You may have to pay for the service, or you can request a waiver.

Chances are the LCSA will recommend a DNA test for you, the other parent, and the child. The lab will present the results to the LCSA.

If the test shows that you are not the biological father, the case could subside right there. Otherwise, you can accept the outcome, or you can request for a second test. You may have to pay for the second one.

When You Have Signed the Voluntary Declaration of Paternity

It’s possible to sign the voluntary declaration of paternity only to realize later that you are not the father or the child. In such a case, you should completeForm CS 915(Declaration of Paternity Rescission).

You can pick the form at your local child support agency, registrar of births, welfare offices, or family law facilitator’s office.

Limitations to the Rescission Process

File it with the Department of Child Support Services not later than 60 days of signing the declaration of paternity. The other parent will a letter through certified mail informing them about your decision.

Rescission will not work for you if someone has already filed a case using your declaration of paternity form.

Options When You Cannot Apply Rescission

If circumstances hinder you from filing Form CS 915, try to cancel the voluntary declaration of paternity at the courts. The court will not grant your wish smoothly. You will have to give a convincing reason for withdrawing a document that you signed.

If there is no court case regarding your declaration of paternity, you are the plaintiff. The other parent becomes the respondent.

If there is an ongoing legal action connected to your declaration, your application will be part of the case. When completing FL-280, write down the same names for the petitioner and the other parent (or respondent). Include the case number indicated on the papers issued to you.

Let a family law facilitator help you with filling out the forms and make three copies. One is for you, the second for the other parent, and the third will go to the LCSA. The court will get the original form.

Present the Form FL-280 and other copies to the court clerk for stamping. The clerk will indicate the date, time, and venue for your hearing on all the papers. If you can’t pay the filing fee, ask for a waiver.

Serve the other parent with copies of and include a blankForm FL-285(responsive declaration to application). Issue the LCSA with the relevant set of papers. The documents should reach all parties in person 16 days or more before the hearing.

It is essential to follow the right steps when issuing legal papers.Form FL-611elaborates the correct process of serving these forms.

Your server should completeForm FL-330(proof of personal service) for the LCSA and the other parent. File the same document with the court and wait for the court hearing.

Possible Ruling

After hearing, the judge may accept your application. You and the other parent will undergo a genetic test. In the case of same-sex parenting, you must provide evidence that your relationship had no intention for parenting.

If theDNA testshows that you are not the father, the court will make that declaration. If the outcome indicates otherwise, any court orders based on your declaration of paternity remain effective. The court's verdict can also be a basis for claiming child support, child custody, and visitation.

When the Court Has Established Paternity

It’s often pointless to dispute paternity when a court order has already established you as the legal parent of a child. Nullifying a parentage judgment is extremely difficult. The complication depends on the laws surrounding each case as well as the period elapsed after filing.

The moment you realize that someone has filed such claims against you, contact an experienced family law lawyer immediately. He or she will analyze the situation and decide whether contesting is worthwhile.

If there is a chance, the attorney will take you through litigation. The process involves filing intricate legal motions that may be too complex for you.

Presumed Paternity Due to Marriage

TheFamily Code section 7540gives limited exceptions in the case of a baby born during a marriage. The spouses (or domestic partners) are the legal parents of such a child. It's a conclusive presumption which is hard to disprove.

It only exempts you if you were sterile or impotent at the time of the baby's conception. You may also contest if the mother conceived through assisted reproduction.

If you believe that you are not the father of the child in question, consult a family law attorney. The lawyer should advise if there is any legal channel or considerations to support a dispute for parentage

The Paternity Test

In highly contested parental cases regarding paternity, the court ordersDNA testingof the putative father and the child. A cheek swab is sufficient to collect the required samples.

If you believe that you are not the father after the first test, you have the right to a second test by another physician. Otherwise, you can accept the outcome and take parental responsibility for your child.

Not the Father - The Final Word

There is a disturbing trend of women making false accusations against men claiming that they fathered their children. Some do this to seek child support especially if they are facing challenges raising their children.

According to data by the American Association of Blood Banks, about30 percentof paternity tests turn out negative. That’s almost 100,000 out of the 300,000 tests performed in the United States per year.

Chances of being a victim of paternity fraud are very high considering these statistics. Since not everyone goes for paternity testing, the number of men raising other men's children should even be higher.

If you think you are not the father of that child, establish your paternity and get peace of mind.

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https://www.consolidatedlabtesting.com/blogs/blog/non-invasive-prenatal-paternity-testing-how-it-works-and-what-to-expect2019-02-15T16:47:00-05:002019-03-14T15:12:14-04:00Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Testing: How it Works and What to ExpectBryan Thornberg
You're committed to giving your baby a happy, wonderful life -- and the strongest relationship possible with both of its parents.

But if you're pregnant and unsure about your child's paternity, or if you're a father-to-be who has doubts, you don't want to have to wait until your child is born to know for sure.

In this post, we'll tell you everything you need to know about non-invasive prenatal paternity testing.

Read on to learn how it works, why many choose it over traditional paternity tests, and where you can go to find testing kits from an accredited lab.

You don't have to spend another month wondering about the paternity of your child, or worrying that you're not actually the baby's father.

It's time to get the answers you -- and your baby -- deserve.

What Is a Prenatal Paternity Test?

A prenatal paternity test is just what it sounds like: a way to prove or disprove paternity before a child is born.

The mother's blood sample serves as the basis for determining paternity, as the baby's DNA is contained in the mother's bloodstream.

Once there is enough of the baby's cell-free DNA floating in the mother's blood (usually anywhere from 7-9 weeks) the test can be performed. At this stage, the baby's DNA can easily be separated from that of the mother.

Once the sample is taken from both the mother and the father, the child's DNA is compared to the potential father's.

No needles, no invasive procedures, and no risk to the mother and baby.

The results of a prenatal paternity test are 100% accurate, just as with a traditional paternity test. However, we understand that, because pre-birth testing isn't as common, some people may want extra reassurance.

That's why we also provide an optional second paternity test after the baby is born. This is an excellent way to get complete peace of mind and prevent any disagreements and paternity disputes in the future.

Why Choose Prenatal Paternity Testing?

So, why should you opt for pre-birth paternity tests as opposed to waiting until your child is born?

It's not just about peace of mind, securing paternity as early as possible, and knowing that you have the right name on your baby's birth certificate.

When compared with a more traditional paternity test, a prenatal paternity test is a much more affordable option. You're likely already concerned about how you're going to afford the cost of a child. You don't need any more financial strain.

It's also a much safer option.

Many medical paternity tests, especially ones like chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis, do carry a certain amount of risk. This is because, depending on the specific test, a needle may need to be inserted into the woman's abdomen and uterus. This can, in rare cases, harm the mother and/or the baby.

Even if no harm is done to the child, the mother may have to deal with unpleasant side effects like vaginal bleeding and cramping.

In contrast, non-invasive prenatal testing procedures usually only require a blood sample from the mother and mouth swab from the father. Prenatal tests are 100% risk-free.

Of course, we know that you want to be able to get the paternity results as soon as possible.

The good news is that prenatal paternity testing can be done as early as nine weeks from the date of conception. This gives both the mother and father plenty of time to plan. You usually find out the results in as little as two weeks. However, if you need to know sooner, you may be able to get your results in a single week.

Prenatal paternity testing doesn't just tell you whether or not the suspected father is the biological father of your baby. It can also tell you about your baby's gender. You can opt to receive the news when you get the results of the paternity test.

The Psychological Benefits of Prebirth Paternity Tests

Now that you know the basics of how prenatal paternity testing works, let's take a closer look at the emotional benefits they offer.

Even if you aren't currently on the best of terms with the mother or father of your child, you need to do everything you can to stay calm throughout the pregnancy.

This is especially important for mothers, as excessive anxiety during pregnancy can harm your child's brain development within 17 weeks.

Additionally, once you're sure about the paternity results, the father of the child will feel much more comfortable spending time with the mother during the pregnancy.

They may express an eagerness to become involved in things like decorating a nursery, researching different parenting styles, or helping the pregnant mother with groceries and other errands.

Once the baby is born, the father will have a much easier time emotionally connecting with the child knowing for certain it's theirs.

It's important to remember that finalizing paternity results isn't just beneficial for the mother and father. In the future, it will help your child to feel more secure, as well. They'll know who their father is, have a better grasp of their cultural background, and benefit from having both parents in their lives -- whether or not their parents are still in a relationship.

Why You May Need Prenatal DNA Testing

There are countless reasons why you may need to take a paternity test while pregnant.

From making sure you have evidence to collect child support payments to working with insurance claims, you can use the results of a paternity test to help you legally and financially.

The same holds true for parties who have been legally proven not to be the father of a child.

Just make sure that you study up on whether or not your state allows prenatal DNA test results to be used in court. You may need to purchase a court admissible home kit or follow the legal test requirements.

Child Support and Prenatal Paternity Testing

First of all, having proof of paternity can help you to provide the courts with legal evidence in order to get child support payments. If you suspect you're not the father of the child, the results of these tests can also help you to avoid having to make child support payments for a child that isn't yours.

You need to understand that while collecting DNA samples from a suspected father without their knowledge or consent will tell you whether or not they are the father, you can't use those results in court.

You must have the father's consent to be tested in order to prove paternity results to a court of law.

As long as the suspected father signs the Chain of Custody form, the results are admissible in court. Even if the suspected father of your child resists a court-mandated paternity test with an appeal, the courts can overrule that decision and ensure he undergoes the paternity test.

Once he signs the Chain of Custody form, the results of the prenatal paternity test can be used as evidence in court by either party.

If you take the test before the child is born, both of you will save yourselves a significant amount of stress and ensure you have the funds you need to raise your child.

An Accurate Medical History

We know you want to do everything possible to ensure your child is getting the proper medical care and attention -- even while they're still in the womb.

Once you establish paternity, you'll have a much clearer picture of the potential health complications that your child may face in the future.

A prenatal paternity test can help doctors understand the baby's risk for potential birth defects, help you decide which sort of genetic testing you'd like to do on your child, and even give you a head start as parents on medical conditions you may need to prepare for or aim to prevent.

You can also begin to educate yourself about the signs to watch out for if your child is at risk for a serious disease or condition. The sooner you're able to recognize these signs and get help, the higher quality of life your child will be able to enjoy.

Social Benefits and Insurance

In addition to child support payments, knowing who the child's father is as soon as possible also ensures they'll get the social benefits they need.

This may include things like veteran's benefits, social security benefits, and a potential estate division in the future.

Proof of paternity is also required for those who plan on adding a child as a beneficiary of the father's insurance. Insurance companies accept DNA results as proof of paternity.

Securing Future Parental Rights

Knowing the results of a paternity test before birth also helps fathers to protect their parental rights after the baby is born.

Once you're legally named as a child's father, you are entitled to visitation rights, full or partial custody, and will play a financial and emotional role in raising your child.

You'll also have plenty of time to develop a fair custody agreement if you and the mother of your child are not currently in a relationship. This can make things much easier once the child is born.

You can draw up a visitation schedule, create a list of your paternal responsibilities, come up with ways to resolve disagreements without taking the issue to court in the future, and much more.

You may wish to meet with a legal professional to help you and the mother of your child draw up a clear and fair custody agreement.

About Our Prenatal Paternity Testing Kits

Let's quickly go over what you can expect from our prenatal paternity testing kits.

To place your order, first determine the number of kits you need.

This will likely depend on the number of potential fathers that you're dealing with. You can also opt in or out of learning the baby's gender when you place your order. You'll then choose whether or not you'd like the follow-up test once the child has been born.

We offer both a 100% satisfaction and 30-day money back guarantee, because we're confident that you'll love our products.

We're committed to protecting your privacy, which is why we use SSL transaction methods to keep your information secure.

If the mother and potential father(s) don't live in the same city, then an appointment, if needed, can be arranged based on each party's location.

You can call to speak to a live representative at any time should you have questions about the ordering process. Usually, we will send you your results over email. Our price also includes any shipping and lab fees, so you don't have to worry about getting hit with a hidden charge later on.

Finally, we're proud to use labs with AABB Accreditation and more. We have excellent standards and follow strict guidelines to ensure that you get the best possible service and results.

So, are you ready to order a prenatal paternity testing kit?

Is Prenatal Paternity Testing Right for You?

We know that having any amount of uncertainty about the father of your child -- or if you really are the father -- is incredibly stressful.

You shouldn't have to wait to get the answers you need, and you deserve plenty of time to move forward with next steps no matter what the results say.

We're here to help.

Place your order for a prenatal paternity testing kit today.

If you've already had your baby, we also offer standard paternity tests kits in addition to other DNA test kits to determine siblingship, grandparentage, and even aunt/uncle lineage.

You deserve support, fast and accurate results, and above all, peace of mind.

Together, let's make sure you get it.

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https://www.consolidatedlabtesting.com/blogs/blog/helping-people-with-questions-prenatal-paternity-testing2019-02-01T21:31:00-05:002019-03-21T08:41:03-04:00Helping people with questions - Prenatal Paternity TestingChris Powellhttps://www.consolidatedlabtesting.com/blogs/blog/full-or-half-your-guide-to-sibling-dna-test2019-01-14T10:53:00-05:002019-06-12T15:18:35-04:00Full or Half: Your Guide to Sibling DNA TestChris Powell
Are you really brother and sister? Do you only share one parent? Read this guide to a sibling DNA test and find out all there is to know!

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DNA tests have helped the long-lost sibling reunion story become a more common reality than ever before. One pair of siblings was reunited 34 years after their separation!

A DNA test can also help you answer important questions about your family. For example, you can determine if your sibling is really your half-sibling, or not related at all. There are many fascinating surprises a sibling DNA test can uncover!

Ready to learn the answers? We'll show you how it works and what you need to know -- keep reading for more!

Sibling DNA: How Does It Work?

No two people have the same DNA -- not even identical twins (although they share more similarities than most). However, siblings do share enough DNA that a test can determine how likely two people are to be related.

Everyone gets their DNA from their parents: half from their mother and half from their father. However, that DNA gets recombined for each individual, which is why no two people have the same DNA even if they have the same parents.

However, full siblings do tend to share around half of their DNA, which is why sibling tests are so effective. Half siblings usually share around a quarter of their DNA. Although a DNA test can't conclusively prove that two people are siblings, it can give results that are 99 percent accurate.

Which Sibling DNA Test Should You Choose?

There are a few different ways to test whether or not you're really related -- and how related you are. Let's take a look at the types of tests you can choose between.

Full Siblings

Full siblings share the same two biological parents, while half-siblings share one parent.

The test to determine full siblingship is conducted when it is known that the siblings share one common parent. To determine whether you're full siblings, the test will look for how likely it is that two people have the same two parents, or not. Since full siblings share approximately 50% common DNA, we would expect this to be represented in the test.

Half Siblings

A half siblingship test is conducted to determine if 2 or more people share one common parent. Half siblings should share approximately 25% common DNA. This test will determine whether two people are half-siblings, or not related at all, using a DNA test.

Siblingship tests determine if there are 0, 1, or 2 common parents.

Why Take a Sibling DNA Test?

Is a sibling DNA test worth it? Let's take a look at some ways answering these family questions might benefit you.

Find a Lost Sibling

Taking a DNA test can help you confirm if someone who you think might be your sibling really is. But can it help you find a sibling that you never knew you had?

Although the chances of this occurring are slim, it's certainly not impossible. Your lost sibling simply needs to have taken a DNA test within the same database as yours, so their results will come up as a match. If they're in a different database, it won't work.

Get the Answers

If you and your sibling (or supposed sibling) have long suspected there's more to the story than what your parents told you, a sibling DNA test can help you get the answers. This can clear up questions that seem otherwise impossible to answer.

Even standard DNA tests can raise some questions. Because our DNA gets recombined for each individual, a pair of siblings may get very different results from an ancestry test. If those results are too different, you might find yourself wondering if you're really siblings at all.

Figure Out Estate Questions

Sometimes, a DNA test can help navigate issues surrounding an inheritance or estate. For example, you may want to write your full sibling into your will, but finding out that you're not actually related could change that.

How a Home DNA Test for Siblings Works

Ready to take the test? Let's find out what's in store after you've made your decision.

If you buy a test for home use, you and your sibling will each receive your test in the mail. You'll use what's included to gather a sample of cells from the inside of your cheek. This process is fast and painless.

Follow the instructions to put your cell sample in the provided container and mail it off to the lab to get tested.

If you know that you have at least one parent in common, it's also helpful to get a cheek swab sample from that parent, if possible. This can help give more accurate results.

Once the lab receives your samples, staff will analyze the samples to find the relationship between them. You'll get the results back in a matter of days, along with information on what your results mean for your sibling relationship.

The more DNA markers the test analyzes, the more accurate it will be, so make sure to look for a test that analyzes more markers.

Is a Sibling DNA Test Right for You?

If you want to know the answers to questions about your sibling relationship, a sibling DNA test is the only way to get them.

These tests have granted people the freedom to get their own answers, rather than relying on what their parents say. If you think you want a test, don't hesitate to get started: it's an easy process that delivers fast results.

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https://www.consolidatedlabtesting.com/blogs/blog/how-accurate-are-home-dna-tests2018-12-03T10:57:00-05:002019-03-26T10:58:08-04:00How Accurate are Home DNA Tests?Chris Powell
What are the differences between legal and at-home DNA tests? How accurate are home DNA tests? Find out here.

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By 2019, more than 26 million people had taken at-home DNA tests. Most of these were to determine your ancestry or heritage, but some were also to determine the paternity of someone in question.

While the popularity of these tests aren't slowing down any time soon, you may ask yourself, "How accurate are home DNA tests?" In this article, we'll go over their accuracy, and what they can get right, and wrong, about your genetic make-up.

What is a Home DNA Test?

A home DNA test can come in a couple of forms and can be ordered from a few different places. If you're doing a paternity test, you may have to pick up the test kit from a local doctor or DNA testing lab.

Other home DNA tests, like those that determine your ancestry, are available online through various retailers. In the United States, you can also buy some of the DNA tests from brick and mortar stores like Target or Walmart.

To complete the DNA test, you'll need to either spit into a tube provided or to swab the inside of your cheek. You'll then place the tubes where the kit instructs you to, then mail it back to the laboratory.

What Do These Tests Tell You?

The Humane Genome Project was able to see the entire human DNA sequence in 2003. Following that, technology made it easier, and cheaper, for people to have their DNA read conveniently. As such, things like paternity tests and ancestry DNA kits began popping up.

Firstly, most of these kits can tell you who your close relatives are because you share the same types of DNA. For example, if you and your mother take the same test, it is likely that you'll be matched as mother and child.

The kits can also tell you who many of your close relatives are, and can often tell if twins are identical or fraternal, a question many twins were unaware of the answer to until they were much older.

The tests also supposedly tell you about your genetic heritage, though there is some discrepancy to that. In reality, the tests tell you where on Earth individuals possess the same or similar DNA to you. In some regards, this is telling you where your ancestors are from, but it doesn't necessarily tell you where your ancestors are from past a certain time period.

Many people also report discrepancies between tests.

Why Are There Discrepancies Between Ancestry Tests of Different Brands?

There are two reasons why some Ancestry test kits will give you one answer as to your DNA while other test kits will give you a little bit of a different answer.

The first reason is what the at home DNA test kit is looking for or studying in your DNA. For example, you could find out you're a carrier for cystic fibrosis in one test, but another will say that you're not at all. The difference is that one test is actually scanning for this, while one isn't.

Discrepancies in Ancestry tests can also be due to the number of people who take the tests. Your test results actually evolve over time, as they match to more and more individuals who have taken the tests. The more people with similar DNA to you that take the test, the more you'll know about yourself and your DNA.

At the moment, many Ancestry DNA tests are easier for white people to read and glean results from, as they are the most likely to take the tests.

However, people of color can also get some answers or results to their history, but the DNA will become more accurate as more people of color submit their tests.

It is important to note that the majority of Ancestry at home DNA tests will not tell you that people are not related to you if they are, and vice versa.

Are At Home Paternity Tests Accurate?

Yes. At home paternity tests are just as accurate as any test taken in an office or lab. These tests allow you to test for paternity in the privacy of your own home, at your own convenience. It also allows you to mail in the samples when you're ready and feel comfortable, both of which are major reasons why people choose to take paternity tests at home.

Just because a test is taken at a doctor's office or in a laboratory does not make it more accurate.

Why Are Some At Home DNA Tests Not Admissible in Court?

Depending on why you're taking the DNA test, you may need the paternity of your potential father in question in order to move forward with something legally.

However, you may have noted that at home DNA tests are not admissible in court, and therefore, cannot be used to state that the people in question are related to one another.

This is not because the at home tests are not accurate. The issue becomes that of a witness. If the tests are taken at home, there can be no assurance that other people did not take the tests and mail them in, thus manipulating the results.

If you take the test at a doctor's office or a lab, a witness can certify and document that the people in question are the ones taking the test.

So, How Accurate Are Home DNA Tests?

Hopefully, this article has answered the question of, "How accurate are home DNA tests?" The answer is, of course, highly accurate and getting better with each passing year.

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https://www.consolidatedlabtesting.com/blogs/blog/what-are-the-most-frequently-asked-questions-about-a-prenatal-paternity-test2018-11-05T11:03:00-05:002019-03-26T11:04:01-04:00What Are the Most Frequently Asked Questions About a Prenatal Paternity Test?Chris Powell
Do you have concerns about your prenatal paternity test? Check out the most frequently asked questions about a prenatal paternity test.

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You might be surprised to learn that studies suggest that as many as one dad out of every 25 is not the real father. That's 4% of all families.

That's why it's important for men or women who have doubts to get DNA testing. And you don't have to wait until the baby is born. Prenatal paternity tests are available in at-home test kits.

Read on to get the answers to the most common questions about prenatal DNA testing.

Is a Prenatal Paternity Test Risky for the Baby or Mother?

When people research prenatal DNA testing, the first thing they want to know is if it is dangerous to the mother or fetus.

In years gone by, there were some paternity tests that could have put a fetus at risk. Collecting a baby's DNA was done by using a large needle to pierce through mom's stomach to extract amniotic fluid. This came with a slight risk for miscarriage.

How Does the Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Test Work?

Once people are assured that prenatal DNA testing is safe, they next want to know how a paternity test works.

Non-invasive paternity tests use the latest advances in technology to extract the baby's DNA from a small sample of the mother's blood.

The lab will also need a cheek swab sample from the possible father(s). Lab technicians can then match the baby's DNA to the cheek swab sample to check for a match.

Is Prenatal DNA Testing Conclusive?

But how accurate are the results of prenatal DNA testing? Is it more accurate to wait until the baby is born to do a paternity test?

The fact is that a non-invasive paternity test is just as accurate as a paternity test that is taken from a child.

When done correctly, prenatal DNA testing is 99.99% accurate.

Is Prenatal DNA Testing Legally Binding?

Yes. Prenatal DNA testing can be used for child custody as well as child support, but not all labs offer a legal version of this test.

However, the test needs to follow a certain procedure to ensure chain of custody. Chain of custody means that the paperwork and samples have been witnessed by a neutral third party who has nothing to gain or lose from the test results.

Beware that at-home DNA testing kits are NOT court admissible and with the necessity for the mother to have blood drawn for a non-invasive prenatal paternity test, doing this test at home is not an option. You must choose a legal DNA paternity test that starts with the DNA samples collected by a trained DNA collector. The end result is a certified and notarized DNA test report.

At What Stage of Pregnancy Can I Get a Non-Invasive Paternity Test?

In the past, a woman had to wait until she was 13 weeks pregnant for DNA testing.

Thanks to the advances in technology, prenatal DNA testing can take place as soon as the mom is 8 weeks pregnant.

Why Should I Do a Paternity Test During Pregnancy?

Some people wonder what the benefits of conducting the paternity test before the baby is born.

There are many reasons why this is a good idea. Mainly, settling the paternity will help expectant mothers reduce their worry during pregnancy.

Having a definitive knowledge about who the father of the baby is will allow the soon-to-be dad to begin making plans for the upcoming birth of his child.

Regardless of the relationship between the parents, knowing who the father of the child is can help them work together as parents in the best interest of their child.

The father, once he knows for sure he is the father, may become interested in preparing for the upcoming baby. And he can begin to bond with the baby once he knows it is his child.

How Long Does it Take to Get Results?

The best prenatal DNA testing services understand that you don't want to be kept waiting. That's why the best sites return your results as soon as they are available.

You can also get your results mailed to you. To protect your privacy, Consolidated Lab Testing sends your results in a plain, unmarked envelope.

Your report will say whether the alleged father is excluded or not excluded as the biological child of the fetus.

When a report says that he is excluded that means that he cannot be the father. When a report states that a man is not excluded, that means that the fetus and the man do share biological DNA and he is the father.

The report will also include the probability of paternity. A result of 99.99% or higher means that man is the biological father.

What is the Cost of a Paternity Test?

These labs often do release their research to prove their method of DNA testing. And so the accuracy is questionable.

It's in your best interest to choose a reputable DNA testing provider from the start.

Final Thoughts on Prenatal Paternity Tests

Thanks for reading. We hope this list of the most frequently asked prenatal paternity test questions has given you some peace of mind.

Still, have some questions? Feel free to contact us online or by phone.

We're happy to answer any questions you have.

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https://www.consolidatedlabtesting.com/blogs/blog/prove-paternity-asap-how-soon-can-you-get-a-paternity-test2018-10-01T11:11:00-04:002019-05-08T11:16:58-04:00Prove Paternity ASAP: How Soon Can You Get a Paternity Test?Chris Powell
Wondering about paternity can cause stress for everyone involved. Discover how soon you can get a paternity test at each step and the costs involved.

Every year, almost211 million pregnanciesbegin across the globe. While finding out that a baby is on the way can be exciting, it can also unveil a world of questions. Some of the questions, like determining paternity, require swift, accurate answers.

Alleged fathers and expecting mothers can find themselves asking, “how soon can you get a paternity test?”. After all, not knowing who the father is can have numerous negative side effects.

Did you know that in many states, you can't put the father's name on the birth certificate if you haven’t established paternity? Now knowing who the biological father is can also make the child’s future health care more difficult to maintain.

If you’re ready for answers, you’ll be happy to know paternity tests can happen sooner and faster than ever before. Read on to learn more about when you can get a paternity test and what you can expect.

How Soon Can You Get a Paternity Test?

Having to wait to determine paternity can cause stress and financial hardships. In the past, prenatal paternity tests could only take place once the mother was already in her 13th week of pregnancy.

Today, new advances in technology make it possible to have a prenatal paternity test done at only nine weeks of pregnancy.

Helping Single Mothers

Now that testing can be done sooner, there is more hope for single mothers in America. Did you know that close to half of all the births in the United States happen with single mothers?

To be exact a surprising, 40.3 percent of all births in America, occur without the mother knowing who the father is. Without determining the paternity of the father, single mothers are unable to make any claims for child support. Thanks to prenatal testing, countless mothers are able to legally expect financial support from the child's father.

Risk-Free Procedure

You’ll be happy to know that both the mother and child will be completely safe during the entiretesting process. In the past, there have been tests that could provide risks to the fetus.

This is because the outdated tests required physicians to use a large needle. The needle would pierce the mother's stomach in an attempt to extract amniotic fluid. Old versions of paternity tests did come with a heightened risk of miscarriage.

Luckily for you, the tests available today are more modern and safe. Now the procedure is risk-free and non-invasive.

Recent developments in technology make it possible to extract DNA from the baby by using a sample of the mother’s blood. In addition to getting a sample of the mother's blood, the lab will also require a cheek swab sample from the potential father. With both samples (blood and cheek swab) the lab technicians can compare the baby’s DNA to the one provided by the father.

Test Cost and Turn Around Times

Now that you know more about how the prenatal paternity DNA test works, let’s explore its cost. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of the test and the benefits you’ll be able to enjoy.

The cost of the prenatal DNA paternity test used to be close to $1,700. This means you’ll be enjoying roughly $600 in savings when you purchase your kit today. As stated above, the entire testing procedure is risk-free and has a promise of 99 percent or better accuracy.

The prenatal test has the same amount of accuracy as a post-birth paternity test. If you’re in a rush and need a turn around faster than two weeks there are options for you. You can choose to pay an additional fee to have the test results back within as soon as one weeks time.

Are you trying to determine paternity amongst more than one father? If there are two potential fathers you can choose the option labeled “two alleged fathers”. The kit for two fathers will come with an additional cheek swab set up.

Finally, new advancements in technology have also made it possible to determine the gender of the baby. Knowing the gender of your baby is completely optional.

When purchasing the kit online you’ll see right the option for revealing the gender next to the number of alleged fathers. All you have to do is choose yes or no for wanting to learn the gender of the baby.

Five-Step Process

So far we’ve been addressing the concerns, and information you need to obtain the paternity test and alleviate any worries you might have. Now, you’re ready to start exploring the five-step process that takes place after you’ve already made your purchase.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect after completing your order for the Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Test:

The DNA kit is immediately sent to the address you provided

We work with you to make a DNA collection appointment

Attend the DNA collection

Overnight samples to the lab

We contact you with results

We send the DNA kit out immediately after you order it to help minimize any amount of time you might have to wait.

After Placing Your Order

We will be contacting you within 2 hours (during normal business hours) when you place your order. During our phone call, we will inform you of several different DNA collection sites that are close to you.

After we determine what DNA collection site works best for you, we will schedule an appointment for you with the facility. Keep in mind that the appointment will have to be on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. The reason for this is to ensure that the lab will be able to receive the DNA sample the next day.

Next, the mother and alleged father will need to attend the appointment at the DNA collection site. During this time the mother will give two small vials of blood. They will be drawing the blood from her arm. The alleged father will give his DNA sample, using a cheek swab.

After the DNA collection process, the samples are immediately overnighted to the lab using FedEx. The very next day, the lab will begin to process the samples. You can expect the lab to take around nine business days to completely analyze the DNA samples.

The very minute the lab releases the DNA results, we will contact you. When we contact you we will let you know the DNA test report is complete. Then we will email the report to the email address you gave us during the purchasing process.

At Home Options

Now you know the answer to your question, “how soon can you get a paternity test?” For parents who need fast answers, a prenatal paternity test is a wonderful option. What about the parents who don’t need such a quick turnaround time and can wait until after the baby is born?

If your circumstance allows you to wait until the baby is born, you can save money with anat-home DNA paternity kit. We understand that superior service, accurate results, and great prices help us serve our customers the best. That's why Consolidated Lab Testing is proud to be among the top providers of DNA relationship testing.

Check out our at home DNA paternity test, which is only $119. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us using ourcontact uspage.